Si-tex MDS 9 User's Manual
MDS 1
Radome 0.9 Feet
MDS 8
Radome 1.5 Feet
MDS 9
Radome 1.8 Feet
MDS 10
Open 4 or 5 Feet
Copyright 2008 Seiwa - Hong Kong
All rights reserved. Printed in Italy. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any
means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher.
User Manual
code: (D 050608e)
Safety Precaution
HIGH VOLTAGE WARNING
Dangerously high voltages are present within the RADAR scanner unit. There are
no internal connections or adjustments necessary for installation. Only a qualified
radar service technician should remove the cover. Technicians must exercise extreme care when working inside the unit. Always remove power before removing
the cover. Some capacitors may take several minutes to discharge, even after
switching off the radar. Before touching the magnetron or any high voltage components, ground them with a clip lead.
MICROWAVE RADIATION HAZARD
The microwave energy radiated by a radar antenna is harmful to humans, especially to one’s eyes. Never look directly into an open waveguide or into the path of
radiation from an enclosed antenna. Radar and other radio frequency radiation
can upset cardiac pacemakers. If someone with a cardiac pacemaker suspects
abnormal operation, immediately turn off the equipment and move the person
away from the antenna. Turn off the radar whenever it is necessary to work on
the antenna unit or on other equipment in the beam of the radar.
MAGNETRON PREHEATING
When starting your RADAR for the first time or when restarting it after a two
month or longer non-operating period, preheat the magnetron at least 30 minutes in standby mode.
Please read through this manual before the first operation. If you have any questions, please contact the Company’s customer service or your local dealer.
4 User Manual
Contents
Safety Precaution ................................................................................. 4
HIGH VOLTAGE WARNING ................................................................................. 4
MICROWAVE RADIATION HAZARD ......................................................................... 4
MAGNETRON PREHEATING ................................................................................. 4
About this User Manual ................................................................................. 7
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................. 7
CONVENTIONS USED ................................................................................. 8
HOW THIS USER MANUAL IS ORGANIZED ............................................................... 8
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE ................................................................................. 8
EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED ................................................................................. 8
1. Radar Installation ................................................................................. 9
2. Functions ............................................................................... 23
Optional Equipment ................................................................................. 8
1.1 INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................... 9
1.2 PREPARE THE RADAR FOR INSTALLATION ........................................................ 9
1.3 INSTALLATION PROCEDURE ......................................................................... 10
1.4 ELECTRICAL AND DATA CONNECTIONS .......................................................... 10
1.5 CONNECTION PROCEDURE ........................................................................... 10
1.6 RADAR JUNCTION BOX CONNECTIONS ........................................................... 11
1.6.1 Jumper To Control Radar On/Off Operation ........................................... 13
1.6.1.1 Radar Powered On all the time ................................................ 13
1.6.1.2 Radar Powered On/Off Controlled by an External Switch ............. 13
1.6.1.3 Radar Power On/Off Controlled by the Chart Plotter Software ...... 13
1.6.2 Alternative Power Connection ............................................................. 13
1.6.2.1 Power Connections ................................................................ 13
1.7 SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION ........................................................................ 13
1.7.1 I/O Setup ............................................................................... 13
1.7.2 Warming Up ............................................................................... 14
1.7.3 Transmission On ............................................................................... 14
1.7.4 Radar calibration ............................................................................... 14
1.7.4.1 Heading Line ........................................................................ 14
1.7.4.2 Antenna Parking Position ....................................................... 14
1.7.4.3 Sector Transmission Off ......................................................... 15
1.7.4.4 Transmission Trigger Delay .................................................... 15
1.7.4.5 Automatic and Manual Tune ................................................... 18
Manual Tune ........................................................................ 19
Automatic Tune .................................................................... 20
1.7.4.6 Save Tuning to User C-CARD .................................................. 21
1.7.4.7 Load Tuning from User C-CARD ............................................... 21
2.1 BASIC ............................................................................... 23
2.1.1 Cross Cursor ............................................................................... 23
2.1.2 Chart Overlay ............................................................................... 23
2.1.3 Range ............................................................................... 24
2.1.4 Orientation ............................................................................... 24
2.1.5 Motion Mode ............................................................................... 24
2.1.6 Echo Trails Settings ........................................................................... 25
2.1.7 Target Expansion .............................................................................. 25
2.2 SENSITIVITY ............................................................................... 25
2.2.1 Interference Rejection ....................................................................... 25
2.2.2 Gain Adjustment ............................................................................... 25
2.2.3 STC (Sensitivity Time Constant) Adjustment ......................................... 25
2.2.4 FTC (Fast Time Constant) Adjustment .................................................. 26
2.2.5 MBS (Main Bang Suppression) Adjustment ............................................ 26
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5
2.3 RADAR FEATURES ............................................................................... 26
2.3.1 Cursor Window ............................................................................... 26
2.3.2 Heading Marker ............................................................................... 26
2.3.3 Degree Scale ............................................................................... 27
2.3.4 Range Rings ............................................................................... 27
2.3.5 Compass Rose ............................................................................... 28
2.3.6 EBL & VRM ............................................................................... 28
2.3.6.1 Handling of EBL/VRM ............................................................. 29
2.3.7 Parallel Cursor ............................................................................... 29
2.3.8 Center Offset ............................................................................... 30
2.3.8.1 Handling of Center Offset ....................................................... 30
2.3.9 Status Bar ............................................................................... 30
2.4 CHART FEATURES ............................................................................... 31
2.4.1 Chart Overlay Mode ........................................................................... 31
2.4.2 Chart Synchronization ....................................................................... 31
2.4.3 Cursor Echo ............................................................................... 31
2.5 GUARD ZONES ............................................................................... 31
2.5.1 Handling of Guard Zone ..................................................................... 32
3. Radar Pages ............................................................................... 33
4. Technical Specifications ............................................................................... 37
5. Troubleshooting ............................................................................... 43
6. Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................................ 45
A. What is Radar? ............................................................................... 49
B. Installation ............................................................................... 53
Analytical Index ............................................................................... 55
2.5.2 Guard Zone Sensitivity ....................................................................... 32
3.1 PAGES SELECTION ............................................................................... 33
3.1.1 Selection by Soft Key ......................................................................... 33
3.2 STATUS BAR ............................................................................... 34
3.3 MENU HANDLING ON FULL PAGES ................................................................. 35
3.4 SELECTION OF THE "ACTIVE" VIEW IN SPLIT/COMBO PAGES ............................ 35
4.1 MDS 1 ............................................................................... 37
Antenna unit ............................................................................... 37
Dimensions and Mounting ............................................................................ 37
4.2 MDS 8 ............................................................................... 38
Antenna unit ............................................................................... 38
Dimensions and Mounting ............................................................................ 39
4.3 MDS 9 ............................................................................... 39
Antenna unit ............................................................................... 39
Dimensions and Mounting ............................................................................ 40
4.4 MDS 10 ............................................................................... 41
Antenna unit ............................................................................... 41
Dimensions and Mounting ............................................................................ 41
A.1 GENERAL ............................................................................... 49
A.1.1 Antenna ............................................................................... 49
A.1.2 Side Lobe ............................................................................... 49
A.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF RADAR WAVE ............................................................. 50
A.2.1 Targets difficult to display on screen .................................................... 50
A.2.2 Shadow zones of Radar ...................................................................... 50
A.2.3 False echoes ............................................................................... 51
A.2.3.1 Ghost echoes ....................................................................... 51
A.2.3.2 Multiple echoes ..................................................................... 51
A.2.3.3 False echoes caused by side lobe ............................................ 51
A.2.3.4 Distant False echoes caused by duct phenomenon ..................... 52
A.2.3.5 Radar interference ................................................................ 52
B.1 MORE INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................ 53
B.1.1 Shifting from keel line ........................................................................ 53
B.1.2 Obtaining sufficient dip angle .............................................................. 53
B.2 INSTALLING SCANNER UNIT ......................................................................... 53
6 User Manual
About this User Manual
INTRODUCTION
Your RADAR consists of two main components, the RADAR scanner unit and a
ColorMax Series display unit. The display unit is a user-supplied plotter capable of
running the radar operating application. The RADAR scanner unit includes the
radar antenna, transmitter, receiver and necessary electronics to deliver radar
information to the user’s plotter. The mounting hardware kit, interconnection cable
and a Radar junction box are included in the Radar scanner box.
Any menu operation and functions activation in this User Manual is related to the
following chart plotter models (see the following table). Whenever it is necessary,
a note has been inserted for those models with operational differences.
CHART PLOTTER NAME SOFTWARE SN Radar Serial Port Available from Sw
EXPLORER II Plus S5egSWctc All 2 or 3 11.00
EXPLORER II Plus S3egSWctcj All 2 or 3 11.00
EXPLORER II Plus XSegSWctcj After February 2005 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX WIDE E S4egSW7wc All 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX WIDE I S4igSW7wc All 2 11.00
COLOR MAX WIDE E S3egSW7wc All 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX WIDE I S3igSW7wc All 2 11.00
COLOR MAX SEALINK E S4egSW8wc All 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX SEALINK I S4igSW8wc All 2 11.00
COLOR MAX 11 XSegSW11c After February 2005 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX 11 S3egSW11c All 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX PRO S4egSW11c All 2 or 3 11.00
TRAWL PLOT 12 S5egSW12c All 2 or 3 11.00
TRAWL PLOT 12* XSegSW12c After February 2005 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX 15 S5egSW15c All 2 or 3 11.00
COLOR MAX 15 S3egSW15c All 2 or 3 11.00
NOTE The serial Port 3 is usually used for the Smart GPS.
NOTE* To connect the TRAWL PLOT below s/n 4129999 (before February 2005)
please contact your local dealer (to make the hardware change necessary).
The Radar full functionality, as described in this User Manual, is obtained only
when the scanner is included in an integrated system including chart plotter,
gyrocompass and GPS antenna.
Please read carefully this User Manual to learn the operating features for your
Radar. Please refer to your chart plotter User Manual for all other operating instructions.
User Manual
7
CONVENTIONS USED
Throughout this User Manual, the labelled keys are shown in capital letters enclosed in square brackets, for example [ENTER]; the software keys are shown in
small capital letters enclosed in square brackets, for example [EDIT].
Menu operations are in bold characters listed by keys sequence with the menu
names enclosed between inverted commas, for example [MENU] + "ALARMS"
+ [ENTER] means: press the [MENU] key, using the cursor key select the Alarms
menu and then press [ENTER].
HOW THIS USER MANUAL IS ORGANIZED
♦ CHAPTER 1: Radar Installation
Installation of the Radar and set up of the hardware configuration.
♦ CHAPTER 2: Functions
How to connect the chart plotter and the Radar; and how to operate
them.
♦♦
♦ CHAPTER 3: Radar Pages
♦♦
Description of the available Radar pages, full and split pages.
♦♦
♦ CHAPTER 4: Technical Specifications
♦♦
Technical specification and dimensions of the Radar.
♦♦
♦ CHAPTER 5: Troubleshooting
♦♦
♦♦
♦ CHAPTER 6: Frequently Asked Questions
♦♦
♦♦
♦ APPENDIX A: What is Radar?
♦♦
♦♦
♦ APPENDIX B: Installation
♦♦
The Analytical Index is at the end of this User Manual.
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE
If your chart plotter does not operate properly, please refer to the chart plotter
User Manual.
EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED
♦ Scanner Unit, Radar scanner with cable
♦ Fasteners, stainless steel:
♦ 1 Radar Junction Box
♦ 1 Template, for locating mounting holes
♦ 1 Switch, Rocker type, DPST
♦ 2 Fuses, 5A (spare)
Optional Equipment
♦ Magnetic Heading Sensor
♦ Extended length cables, 15 or 20 meters
8 User Manual
4 Bolts, hex metric M8 x 25U (approx. 3/8 dia. x 1 in. long)
4 Flat washer
4 Lock washer
1. Radar Installation
This chapters illustrates the instructions on electrical connections of the Radar
and the necessary software settings to operate it.
In order for the Radar to communicate with the Chart Plotter, the software
configuration explained in the Par. 1.7 is mandatory.
1.1 INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Prior to the actual installation of the RADAR scanner unit, several factors must be
considered to ensure maximum performance. The scanner must be located so
that passengers and crew are not exposed to the direct Radar beam. The scanner
unit should be mounted on the centerline of your vessel in a location that has an
unobstructed view forward and the rest of the area around the scanner is as
unobstructed as possible. A location as high as practical to improve maximum
range is preferable, keeping in mind that minimum range objects may be overlooked if mounted too high. Place the units in before large structures and exhaust
stacks. Large structure or stacks cause blind spots. Contamination from engine
exhaust on the scanner housing reduces radar performance.
Antennas for GPS, radio communication or other equipment should not be in the
radar beam. Use non-metallic extension poles to move the active area of antennas above the radar beam.
In selecting a location, consider the suitability of the mounting surface. It must be
flat and approximately levelled with the vessel’s water line. The surface must
support the weight of the scanner and have access to the under side for installation of the four mounting bolts.
NOTE The recommended mounting surface thickness is 3/8 to 1/2 in. (9 mm to 13
mm). If the mounting surface is thin, a doubler should be added. If it is
thicker, longer bolts must be purchased. The scanner will be damaged if bolts
penetrate more than 9/16 in. (15 mm).
WARNING
Also, consider the cable route from the scanner to the operator’s location. Avoid
routing the interconnecting cable through areas of possible damage from moving
objects, machinery, and exposure to chemicals or high temperature.
1.2 PREPARE THE RADAR FOR INSTALLATION
Unpack your new RADAR and check that the contents correspond to the packing
list. Do not remove the cover from the unit. There are no connections or adjustments inside the unit that are needed for installation or operation. The cable
must remain attached. For ease of handling, coil the cable and place it on top of
the scanner. Then secure it with tape. Invert the scanner and make sure the four
mounting holes are clear to accept bolts.
Working at higher elevations may become necessary while installing the scanner
unit. Observe safety measures and take sufficient precaution to avoid personal
injury or damage to the equipment.
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9
1.3 INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
♦ Prepare the mounting surface by making sure it is clean and flat.
NOTE It is a better to check the accuracy of the template by measuring the actual
dimension between the hole locations. The reproduction process and moisture absorption can affect accuracy.
♦ Use the template provided to mark the location of four mounting holes.
Align the template squarely with the centerline of the vessel and with
the arrow pointing forward.
♦ Drill four 3/8 in. (10 mm) diameter holes through the mounting sur-
face.
♦ Check that each bolt (with lock washer and flat washer) protrude through
the mounting surface at least 5/16 in. (8 mm) but less than 9/16 in.
(15 mm). The scanner will be damaged if bolts protrude more than 9/
16 in. (15 mm).
♦ Apply sealant around each mounting hole.
♦ Place the Radar scanner unit on the mounting surface. Orient the scan-
ner with the index mark on the housing facing forward (cable gland
facing aft).
♦ Install and tighten four M8 x 25U (M8 x 1 in.) mounting bolts.
♦ Uncoil the scanner cable.
♦ Secure the cable near the scanner to support the weight of the cable
and prevent strain on the watertight cable seal. If the cable is to pass
through tubing or a bulkhead, protect the unfinished end. Do not use
the unfinished wires or fabric braid to pull the cable. Attach a fish cord
only to the cable jacket.
♦ Route the cable to the operator’s location, securing it at appropriate
points along the way. Make a drip loop and apply sealant at the entry
point of an exterior bulkhead.
1.4 ELECTRICAL AND DATA CONNECTIONS
The cable from RADAR scanner unit provides all power, data and control connections necessary for operation. The large black and white leads are for power
connections and connect directly to a 12 to 24 VDC power buss; the five small
leads, in the fabric braid, connect to the Radar Junction Box; and the two remaining small leads connect to the On/Off control switch. The On/Off control switch
does not switch the main power leads to the scanner unit, but it does provide a
signal that controls DC power inside the scanner unit.
1.5 CONNECTION PROCEDURE
NOTE In the following procedures, small wires must be stripped and tinned, and
10 User Manual
then connected to the proper connections in the Radar Junction Box, and to
pins on the On/Off control switch. If you are uncertain of your skill in
completing these tasks, it is strongly advised to obtain the services of a
qualified technician. It is essential to the operation and reliability of your
RADAR that these procedures are accomplished properly.
♦ Arrange the free end of the scanner cable so that the unfinished leads
will reach their intended points for connections. The two large wires
must reach a power panel; the five leads in the braided fabric jacket
must reach the Radar Junction Box and the two remaining leads must
reach the desired location for the On/Off control switch. If the leads
must go in different directions, first route the five leads in the fabric
braid to the Junction Box. Then extend the shorter leads using the
same size or larger size wire.
1.6 RADAR JUNCTION BOX CONNECTIONS
Referring to the diagram below, connect the color coded wires from the Radar
cable to the designated place on Terminal strip A in Radar Junction Box as follows.
MOUNTING
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Open the box unscrewing
the 4 bottom screws.
2. Connect the Radar cable
to the terminal A
JUMPER for RADAR
ON/OFF SWITCH
Terminal C
CHART PLOTTER
(see connection tables)
Terminal B
POWER SUPPLY
(see Radar specifications)
3. Connect the Power
supply to the terminal B
4. Connect the chart plotter
cable to the terminal C
5. Set up the jumper for
RADAR ON/OFF switch:
5a. Mount to permanently
power ON the Radar;
5b. Connect to a switch
to manually power
on/off the Radar.
5c. Remove to control
the power ON/OFF
via the chart plotter
with the external
alarm output signal.
Terminal A
RADAR
(see Radar cable label)
Terminal Strip A
Fig. 1.6a - Terminal Strip A Connection for MDS 1/MDS 8/MDS 9
User Manual
Fig. 1.6 - Junction Box
RADAR CABLE
WIRE COLOR FUNCTION
BLACK
ORANGE
YELLOW
BROWN
RED
GREEN
BLUE
BLACK (large wire)
WHITE (large wire)
DATAGND
DATAOUT+
DATAOUT-
DATAIN+
DATAIN-
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH 1
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH 2
RADAR SUPPLY-
RADAR SUPPLY+
11
RADAR CABLE
WIRE COLOR FUNCTION
BLACK
ORANGE
YELLOW
BROWN
RED
GREEN
BLUE
BLACK (large wire)
WHITE (large wire)
BLUE (large wire)
RED (large wire)
DATAGND
DATAOUT+
DATAOUT-
DATAIN+
DATAIN-
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH 1
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH 2
RADAR SUPPLY-
RADAR SUPPLY+
MOTOR POWER-
MOTOR POWER+
Fig. 1.6a1 - Terminal Strip A Connection for MDS 10
Terminal Strip B IS TO BE CONNECTED TO POWER SUPPLY (12 TO 24 VDC NOMINAL)
Do not omit the in-line fuse unless a dedicated and fused terminal is available. If
so, install a 5 Amp fuse. If you are installing a MDS 10 open scanner Radar, it is
important to also connect the Red (+) to positive power terminal, and Blue (-) to
negative power terminal, as this provides power to scanner motor.
This terminal leads the power to the Scanner unit and to the chat plotter (*).
NOTE(*)Only if the chart plotter power wires are connected to Terminal strip C, on B+
and GND terminals.
12-24V POWER SUPPLY
WIRE COLOR FUNCTION
POWER SUPPLY+
RED
POWER SUPPLY-
BLACK
Fig. 1.6b - Terminal Strip B
B+
-
B
Please make sure that the connected power supply is able to supply the
current at the voltage required by the Radar to operate.
Terminal Strip C
See connection tables to determine proper way to connect the chart plotter to
Radar Junction Box.
WARNING
POWER & I/O CABLE
CONNECTION TO PORT 2
PIN WIRE COLOR FUNCTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Connect to control the Radar ON/OFF via the chart plotter. Make sure that:
1) This signal is not used for any other operation (external alarm)
The jumper is removed on the junction box2)
8
BLACK
RED
WHITE
GREEN
GRAY
YELLOW
BROWN
BLUE
GND/COMMON
POWER INPUT+ (10-35 Vdc)
INPUT 1+
INPUT 1-
OUTPUT 2+
OUTPUT 1+
INPUT 2+
OUTPUT EXTERNALALARM
+
Connect to power the
chartplotter via the junction box
Fig. 1.6c - Connection to Port 2
QUICK DISCONNECT
BRACKET CABLE
WIRE COLOR FUNCTION
GND
BLACK
INPUT 2+
BROWN
OUTPUT 2+
GRAY
Fig. 1.6c1 - Connection to Port 2 for Quick Disconnect Bracket Cable
12 User Manual
1.6.1 Jumper To Control Radar On/Off Operation
1.6.1.1 Radar Powered On all the time
Leave jumper located at top of Radar Junction Box mounted. This will keep powered On at all times.
1.6.1.2 Radar Powered On/Off Controlled by an External Switch
The two remaining small leads, the Green wire and the Blue wire, connect to the
On/Off control switch. The On/Off control switch does not switch the main power
leads to the scanner unit, but it does provide a signal that controls DC power
inside the scanner unit.
1.6.1.3 Radar Power On/Off Controlled by the Chart Plotter Software
NOT AVAILABLE FOR COLOR MAX WIDE I/E & COLOR MAX SEALINK I/E
Remove jumper. Connect the EXTERNAL ALARM signal of the chart plotter to
TERMINAL Strip C, Terminal ALR (see connection tables).
Setting up the chart plotter I/O in the following mode:
[MENU] + [MENU] + "ADVANCED" + [ENTER] + "Input/Output" + [ENTER]
+ "RADAR" + [ENTER] + "EXT. ALARM" + [ENTER]
Power the Radar On/Off directly from:
[MENU] + "POWER" + [ENTER] + "ON"/"OFF" + [ENTER]
1.6.2 Alternative Power Connection
You can feed the Power supply to the Radar directly.
1.6.2.1 Power Connections
♦ Route the large black and white wires directly to the power panel. No
switch is required.
♦ Connect the large black wire to the battery negative (—) terminal of
the power panel.
♦ Connect the large white wire (with the in-line fuse) to the battery posi-
tive (+) terminal of the power panel (12 to 24 VDC nominal). Do not
omit the in-line fuse unless a dedicated and fused terminal is available.
If so, install a 5 Amp fuse. If you are installing a MDS 10 open scanner
Radar, it is important to also connect the Red (+) to positive power
terminal, and Blue (-) to negative power terminal, as this provides
power to scanner motor.
This completes the installation of your Radar scanner unit.
Please proceed with setting up the data ports in your chart plotter, following the
instructions below.
1.7 SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION
First you have to install the Radar. Refer to the following paragraphs to configure
the chart plotter to operate with the Radar.
1.7.1 I/O Setup
Setting up the chart plotter I/O depends upon which port is used to connect the
Radar. If you use the connecting cable supplied with the Radar, the Port2 is the
default setting. In this case follow the procedure:
User Manual
[MENU] + [MENU] + "ADVANCED" + [ENTER] + "Input/Output" + [ENTER]
+ "Port 2 Input" + [ENTER] + "RADAR" + [ENTER]
13
1.7.2 Warming Up
It has to be noted that at start-up the Radar needs a variable time from 90 to 120
seconds to heat up the magnetron (microwave emitting tube). During this time it
is not possible to turn on the transmission.
Radar pages are visible but with a small overlapping message window showing
the time remaining to Warm Up completion:
"Radar Warming Up! xx seconds remaining!"
At completion of the Warm Up sequence the following message will be displayed:
"Radar Warming Up! Warm Up Completed!"
This window shall remain open for 2 seconds, then it will close automatically.
At this point the Radar is ready for operation. Transmission is turned Off and
"STAND BY" message is displayed at the center of the Radar page.
1.7.3 Transmission On
Turn On the transmission pressing:
NOTE or following the procedure:
The Radar image is displayed on the screen.
[ENTER]
[MENU] + "TRANSMISSION" + [ENTER] + "ON" + [ENTER]
or using soft keys:
any soft key + [TX]
1.7.4 Radar calibration
At first installation it is necessary to properly calibrate the Radar:
The Radar calibration includes:
[MENU] + "TUNING" + [ENTER]
♦ Heading Line
♦ Antenna Parking Position (ONLY FOR MDS 9/MDS 10)
♦ Sector Transmission Off (ONLY FOR MDS 9/MDS 10)
♦ Transmission Trigger Delay
1.7.4.1 Heading Line
This function is used if the Radar Antenna was not installed pointing directly
parallel with the centerline of the vessel. Adjusting the heading line ensures that
targets are shown relative to your ship’s bow.
♦ select Head Up mode
[MENU] + "ORIENTATION" + [ENTER] + "HEAD UP" + [ENTER]
♦ Press [CLEAR] until the Radar page is shown.
♦ Select a target about 1- 2NM and adjust the vessels speed to accurately
head to the target (preferably on a flat calm day).
♦ If the target is not shown directly ahead on the Radar full page display,
adjust heading the line to correct the target heading:
[MENU] + "TUNING" + [ENTER] + "HEADING LINE" +
[ENTER] + Apply the Heading Correction + [ENTER]
♦ The screen updates as the heading line is adjusted. Repeat the steps until
the target is shown correctly.
1.7.4.2 Antenna Parking Position
AVAILABLE ONLY FOR MDS 9/MDS 10
When the Radar is turned Off, the antenna comes to a stop. If you want to have
the antenna to stop in a specific position, the Antenna Parking Position function
can be used to choose the desired antenna position. This function only controls
the antenna position at which the power to the motor is cut off. The distance
14 User Manual
through which it comes to a stop from this point depends on temperature and
wind conditions. The setting of antenna does not affect the operation of the Radar
at all. To set the antenna position follow this procedure:
[MENU] + "TUNING" + [ENTER] + "ANTENNA PARKING POSITION" +
[ENTER]
Use the cursor keys to adjust the position (between 0 and 90).
The displayed number represents the change from the default setting. The final
setting that parks the antenna straight ahead will likely be a few degrees left or
right from the default setting.
1.7.4.3 Sector Transmission Off
AVAILABLE ONLY FOR MDS 9/MDS 10
This is used to block transmission and target reflection in some special application for fixed installation like sea watching. Within this sector, targets can not be
detected.
Selecting the Sector Transmission Off from the menu:
[MENU] + "TUNING" + [ENTER] + "SELECT TRANSMISSION OFF" + [ENTER]
Radar antenna
Sector OFF
Fig. 1.7.4.3 - Sector Off
1.7.4.4 Transmission Trigger Delay
Tuning the Transmission Trigger Delay (TTD) allows making accurate distance
measurement. In practice, you need to align the start of the sweep with the
leading edge of the transmission pulse.
IMPORTANT: The unit comes with a default Tuning value already setup by the
factory but to obtain maximum precision you should finely adjust this value. Use
the following procedure.
♦ Enter the Transmission Trigger Delay page.
[MENU] + "TUNING" + [ENTER] + "TRANSMISSION TRIGGER DELAY" +
[ENTER]
Since the STC is automatically turned off when entering this page, the screen
appear completely covered with clutter, this is a mandatory condition to
allow properly setting the TTD. The screen should appear as follows:
User Manual
15
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
055
MBS
050
Trans. Trigger Delay
095
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4 - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (I)
♦ Set MBS to 0. The white spot in the Radar origin will disappear.
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
055
MBS
050
Trans. Trigger Delay
095
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4a- Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (II)
♦ Slowly decrease the GAIN value until the clutter clears out and you can
clearly distinguish a round spot in the Radar origin:
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
031
MBS
000
Trans. Trigger Delay
095
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4b - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (III)
♦ If the Transmission Trigger Delay is properly tuned the spot in the Radar
origin should appear as in the picture above. In any case to be sure your
TTD is properly tuned try to decrease the Transmission Trigger Delay until a
hole start forming in the center of the round spot:
16 User Manual
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
031
MBS
000
Trans. Trigger Delay
079
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4c - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (IV)
♦ Now increase the TTD until the hole closes (not more than just the value to
make it close). The increase rate should be very slow: just increase by a
single step at the time and wait until you see the effect on the screen. When
the hole in the center of the spot closes you have reached the optimal TTD
setting.
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
031
MBS
000
Trans. Trigger Delay
095
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4d - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (V)
♦ The spot in the Radar origin is the transmission pulse itself. Targets within
such range are not detectable because their echoes are completely overwritten
by the Radar still transmitting. Such spot is called Main Bang. To remove it
from the screen it is necessary to properly set the MBS (Main Bang Suppression) control. To do this, increase slowly the MBS. The spot is progressively
deleted from the inside toward the outside
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
031
MBS
039
Trans. Trigger Delay
095
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4e - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (VI)
User Manual
17
♦ Continue increasing the MBS until the spot completely disappear:
Transmission
Trigger Delay
Tuning
Gain
031
MBS
067
Trans. Trigger Delay
095
Done
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fig. 1.7.4.4f - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (VII)
♦ Select DONE to exit the TTD tuning menu saving your settings.
♦ The main Radar page is displayed. Please note that since initially Gain was
decreased, now it’s necessary to increase it back in order to achieve maximum sensitivity:
Rings
RNG
4Nm
1Nm
O
HDG 000 T
Heading
Motion
Relative Head Up
STC/FTC
Gain
55
59/Off
Int. Rej.
Exp
Off Of f
G.Z
Trails
Off Of f
SOG 1.0 Kts
O
COG 000 T
DST 9.468
nm
O
BRG 000 T
SENSITIVITY
GAIN
STC 059
FTC Off
INTERF.REJECTION
Fig. 1.7.4.4g - Transmission Trigger Delay tuning (VIII)
055
Off
Once the calibration has been performed, the calibration data is retained. However if a Clear RAM operation is performed it may be necessary to repeat the
calibration.
1.7.4.5 Automatic and Manual Tune
NOT NECESSARY AT FIRST INSTALLATION
The Tune control is used to tune the receiver in the Radar antenna for maximum
target returns on the display. The Radar comes from the factory already tuned so
this operation is not necessary at first installation. In general Radar Tuning may
be necessary if any component of the Radar is replaced for maintenance.
The Radar receiver can be tuned in Automatic or Manual mode. In Automatic Tune
mode, the Radar tunes itself automatically on all range scales. It is recom-
mended to execute the Tune function in Automatic mode. This generally
ensures that the Radar receiver is always tuned to receive the maximum signal.
If you choose the Manual Tune, you will need to adjust it again after 10 minutes,
after you have turned on the Radar, since the required setting will change after
the magnetron has warmed.
NOTE The Manual Tune function should be made only by professional operators.
18 User Manual
Manual Tune
1/4 1/8
Done
Coarse Tuning
082
Manual Tuning
STC
059
128
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fine Tuning
128
Gain
1/4 1/8
Done
Coarse Tuning
055
Manual Tuning
STC
059
130
Rings
RNG
1/8 Nm1/4 Nm
Fine Tuning
128
Gain
x
To execute manual tuning follow the procedure:
[MENU] + "TUNING" + [ENTER] + "MANUAL TUNE" + [ENTER]
♦ The following Warning message is displayed:
Rings
RNG
24 Nm
4Nm
O
HDG 007 T
Heading
Motion
Relative Head Up
STC/FTC
Gain
82
67/Off
Int. Rej.
Exp
Off Of f
G.Z
Trails
Off Of f
SOG 1.0 Kts
O
COG 007 T
DST 0.518
nm
O
BRG 072 T
O
43 33.715N
O
010 17.199E
Fig. 1.7.4.5 - Manual Tune Warning message
♦ Press [ENTER] to proceed, the Manual Tuning page is displayed:
Fig. 1.7.4.5a - Manual Tune page
♦ Try increasing or decreasing the Course Tuning very slowly and in small
steps from its middle value (128) until you obtain the maximum echo returns. If no land or ship targets are available, you may tune for maximum
STC.
♦ Once the Course Tuning has been set, repeat the same procedure with the
Fine Tuning:
User Manual
Fig. 1.7.4.5b - Manual Tuning procedure (I)
19
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